TACOMA, WA — August 6, 2025 | 7:05 PM PT — A horrifying act of violence shattered the calm of Wednesday evening in Tacoma as gunfire erupted outside the Emergency Room entrance of Allenmore Hospital, leaving multiple people shot and a community gripped with fear. The suspect remains at large as local and federal authorities launch an intensive manhunt.
According to the Tacoma Police Department, the shooting occurred at 7:05 PM, when officers received numerous 911 calls reporting an active shooter situation at the hospital’s ER entrance, located near South Union Avenue. Within minutes, first responders arrived to find a chaotic and rapidly evolving scene, with several victims down and panic spreading throughout the facility.
Multiple Victims, Hospital Locked Down
Authorities have confirmed that at least four people were shot in the incident. Two are in critical condition, while the others are being treated for less severe injuries. Victims included both hospital visitors and a staff member caught in the line of fire. All were rushed to trauma care under lockdown procedures.
In response to the threat, Allenmore Hospital initiated a full lockdown, temporarily suspending emergency intake services. Patients already inside the ER were relocated to secure areas within the hospital. Staff members followed active shooter protocols as SWAT and tactical teams cleared the surrounding area.
Witnesses described a terrifying scene.
“I heard what sounded like fireworks — then people were screaming and running toward the parking lot,” said one man who had just arrived with his child for a routine appointment. “A nurse pulled us inside just before more shots rang out.”
Gunman Still at Large
As of late Wednesday night, the shooter remains at large, and no suspect description has been officially released. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the suspect fleeing on foot moments after the shooting, heading westbound through a wooded area behind the hospital.
Law enforcement, including the Tacoma Police Department, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, and FBI, have launched an active search. Tactical units, K-9 teams, and helicopters are being used in the search across surrounding neighborhoods.
Residents within a two-mile radius of the hospital have been urged to shelter in place, lock all doors, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Official Response
In an emergency press statement, Tacoma Police Chief Avery Moore called the shooting a “targeted act of violence” but noted that it’s too early to determine the motive.
“This was not random. We believe the shooter came here with a purpose, but whether that purpose was tied to a specific individual or event is still under investigation,” said Chief Moore.
Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards called the incident “an assault not only on innocent people, but on the very sanctity of a place meant for healing.”
“We will not rest until this person is brought to justice. My heart breaks for the victims, their families, and the brave staff who faced terror while trying to save lives.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has joined the investigation alongside the FBI. Authorities are reviewing hospital surveillance, interviewing dozens of witnesses, and analyzing shell casings recovered from the scene.
There is no confirmed motive at this time, but investigators are exploring possible links to a recent patient altercation that took place at the hospital earlier this week.
Community in Shock
This tragedy has rocked Tacoma to its core. The idea that such violence could take place outside an emergency room — a place of refuge and life-saving care — has shaken citizens, hospital staff, and public officials alike.
Local schools and businesses near the hospital have been advised to remain closed Thursday morning until authorities lift the shelter-in-place advisory.
A press conference is scheduled for 10:00 AM Thursday at Tacoma Police Headquarters to provide updates on the investigation and release additional details to the public.
More information will be shared as it becomes available.